Harpenden's celebrations of the 1953 Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II

Carnival procession - can you recognise the participants?

By Rosemary Ross

Programme of events

LHS archives

The programme of events concludes with the following note:

"It will be a matter of interest to place on record that the cost of the Celebrations outlined in the foregoing Programme and the souvenirs for the children has been met by the allocation by the Urban District Council of the produce of a 1½d [approx. 0.5p] rate, amounting to £860, together with contributions from the residents of Harpenden as the result of several voluntary efforts, including “Merry-go-round-Teas”, “Mile of Pennies”, “Roses of England” and the “Order of Chivalry”. To all …… grateful thanks are extended. …

"The scene is set – pageantry, fun, music and dancing, and Harpenden will bedeck itself with all the colour and gaiety of Fairyland.

"It is hoped that everyone, whether young and old, will find some item which will afford an outlet for the joyous expression of loyalty and devotion to her Gracious Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on her Coronation.

S. V. Shadbolt, Honorary Organiser"

Below is a selection of items from our archives, which gives an idea of how the event was celebrated. Do you recognise any of the people or organisations taking part?

1. The busiest day for celebrations

LHS archives

2. Harpenden WI float, depicting Henry VIII and his six wives. The float broke down at the beginning of the procession, so they took little part in it. What a shame! - See comment below

LHS archives

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8. The Coronation dinner in Harpenden Hall - perhaps the Ball followed this?

I was delighted to see this photograph (no. 2) as it clearly shows my mother, June Tuffin and my sister, Patricia Tuffin. (My mother is seated right at the front and my sister is behind and to the left of her). I was six years old at the time and remember this day very well. Also part of the coronation parade, I was seated somewhat precariously on the back of my uncle's van (Frank Tuffin, electrician) and dressed as a ballerina.

I consent to my name and e-mail address being stored along with this comment, and to the website editors communicating with me by e-mail about the comment if necessary. My name may be published alongside the comment on the website, but my e-mail address will not be published. My information will not be shared with any third party (see our privacy statement).